Ora Houston points out that over 30,000 Austinites signed the petition: "Are we calling the people invalid."

"They petition is still valid."

Houston: "Is there something wrong with having an efficiency audit?!?"

Houston to Butts: "Those are a lot of assertions."

Here's the thing: One would expect Butts to oppose an efficiency audit. But the tone and ferocity of Butts' testimony was striking. Then there's the fact he showed up in the first place. Clearly, an efficiency audit strikes a nerve.

Which begs a follow up question: What would an efficiency audit reveal about David Butts' business relationships and personal finances?!?

We have no specific knowledge, but it's hard not to draw that conclusion following that performance.